Brazil's Distrito Federal issues step‑by‑step guide for Cartão Prato Cheio food aid

Families experiencing food insecurity in Brazil's Distrito Federal can apply for the Cartão Prato Cheio benefit through local social assistance centers (Cras). Eligibility requires a per‑person income of half the minimum wage or less, proof of food insecurity, registration in the CadÚnico or Sids system, and residence in the DF. Priority is given to single‑parent women with children under six, families with young children, people with disabilities, the elderly, and homeless individuals with an individual assistance plan.

The application process begins with scheduling an appointment at a Cras. During the visit, officials assess eligibility and enter the request into the Sistema de Cadastro Socioeconômico, where applicants can monitor progress online. When the status shows “aguardando em liberação,” the request is approved and the card will be issued. Existing beneficiaries may reuse their card, while new recipients must collect the card at a designated bank branch and unlock it before first use. Card balances and transaction history are viewable through the bank’s app, and purchases are confirmed at point‑of‑sale terminals at authorized merchants.